Obsessive compulsive behavior is often a by-product of an illness called obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD. It is characterized by an individual's having obsessions or compulsions that interrupt his life. Some common compulsions include fear of dirt or germs, fear of thinking evil or sinful thoughts, or thinking about certain sounds, images or words all of the time. Common obsessive behaviors include constant hand-washing, checking home appliances or repeating certain phrases. There a variety of ways to treat the disorder ranging from cognitive therapy to the use of medications.
Instructions
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Speak to your doctor or psychiatrist to discuss the most appropriate form of treatment for you. This is usually the best place to start when looking for information about how to treat a disorder. Follow your doctor's advice.
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Develop new behaviors to cope. Implement diversionary techniques, such as limiting the number of times each day that you engage in a particular behavior or whistling or humming a tune, which will help divert your attention away from the behavior.
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Join a self-help group. Go to the International OCD Foundation website at oc.foundation.org and search for a support group in their database. Connecting with others who are coping with the disease can help you find support.
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Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing. Cultivating mindfulness may be particularly helpful to OCD sufferers, as it helps to develop awareness of thought patterns and actions. Having a better understanding of the thoughts processes that lead to particular habits can lead to an awareness that can help alleviate symptoms.
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Take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. Anti-depressants are often prescribed for OCD sufferers as well as anti-anxiety medications and can help alleviate the symptoms of the disorder.
Tips & Warnings
- Family therapy may also help those suffering from OCD. The disease often affects
- an individual's ability to interact with others, therefore placing strain on family relationships. Family therapy helps to others to understand what the sufferer is going through and can help reduce family conflicts.
- Try to stay connected to your family and friends. OCD can sometimes lead to social isolation, which can further exacerbate the underlying anxieties of the disease.
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